Cameroon’s citizens headed to the polls today for a pivotal presidential election, with 92-year-old Paul Biya vying for an unprecedented eighth term. Biya, who has held power for over four decades since 1975, remains the frontrunner despite his advanced age, largely due to the dominance of his ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) over the state apparatus. The election unfolded under tight security, particularly in the English-speaking regions, where separatist groups have long challenged central authority. Reports of low voter turnout and isolated incidents emerged in some districts, but the overall process remained calm. The Electoral Commission (ELECAM) anticipates announcing official results within 15 days, with the Constitutional Council set to validate the outcome by October 26. Biya’s primary challengers include Cabral Libii, leader of the Cameroon Party for National Reconciliation (PCRN), who appeals to the youth with promises of reform, and opposition leader Maurice Kamto, who contested the 2018 election results. International observers, including representatives from the African Union, emphasized the importance of transparency and peaceful acceptance of the results. A victory for Biya would further cement his status as Africa’s longest-serving president, even as Cameroon grapples with economic inequality, security challenges, and political discontent.